Saturday, September 27, 2014

People have different types of hair depending on their genetic nature, the climate of the place they live in and according to the food they consume. There are many other factors which affect the thickness and thinning of hair. People suffer from hair loss at some stages in their life. Though thinning of hair is not fully avoidable you can use many home remedies to keep your hair appear thicker. The most important thing to do to keep the hair fuller is to avoid any use of chemical hair products which cause thinning. There are many natural remedies which will be able to prevent the loss of hair and which can revive the growth of the hair. There are a few important home remedies that will help you to increase the volume of your hair. They are safe and they are cheaper than other artificial methods for making the hair look fuller.

Here are the top home remedies that you can try out to get stronger and thicker hair naturally:

1. Aloe Vera

One of the most popular ingredients that will help in providing thicker hair is Aloe Vera. The Aloe Vera gel is a natural ingredient that has a lot of health benefits and is an effective gel to improve the thickness of the hair.

Take two or three Aloe Vera leaves and cut each one into two halves. Extract the gel from these leaves and apply it on to the scalp.

Allow this gel to work on your hair and scalp for about half an hour.

Rinse it off with well with lukewarm water thoroughly.

You can also make another mix of Aloe Vera gel, a little amount of brandy and an egg. Mix well and then apply on your scalp evenly.

Leave it on your scalp for fifteen to twenty minutes, then wash it off with water and then shampoo your hair with a mild shampoo.

Try this remedy once or twice a week to enjoy healthier and thicker hair.

Consuming a tablespoon of Aloe Vera juice every day on an empty stomach will also help in improving hair growth.

2. Orange Juice

Orange has citric acid properties which will help in easily getting rid of dandruff on the scalp. It will also help in improving the thickness of the hair and promotes hair growth.

Take the orange peel and mash it in a beater to make a pulp.

Apply this pulp on your hair as a hair pack once a week. Leave it for 15 to 20 minutes and then wash it off.

Use this at least once a week to enjoy good hair growth.

Mix equal portions of orange juice as well as apple puree and then apply it on to your scalp and hair.

Leave it there for 30 minutes and then wash it off with plain water.

Try this remedy once a week to soon enjoy longer and thicker hair.

You can also mix equal amount of orange juice and olive oil and apply it on your hair after warming it slightly.

Leave it there for half an hour and then wash it off with plain water.

3. Egg

The egg is the best ingredient that you can think of when it comes to providing the necessary proteins for your hair. It is important for you to give regular protein treatment for your hair in order to make it thicker and stronger and there is no better home remedy that is available than eggs.

Break 2 medium sized eggs in a bowl and beat the eggs well so that they mix well.

Apply the beaten egg on your wet hair and allow it to rest on your hair for 10 to 15 minutes.

Wash your hair in lukewarm water and also use a mild shampoo on your hair so that the smell of the egg disappears from your hair.

If you would like to enjoy stronger and thicker hair, then you need to try this home remedy at least three to four times a week.

You can also mix an egg yolk with a tablespoon of regular hair oil as ell as two tablespoons of water. This has to be mixed properly.

Now massage your scalp thoroughly with this mixture for about ten minutes,.

Leave it on your scalp for another 10 minutes and then wash it off with lukewarm water.

Try this remedy once a week to enjoy thicker hair after a few weeks.

4. Avocado

Avocado is another natural ingredient that you can use on your scalp and hair to enjoy thicker and stronger hair.

Mash the avocado fruit and the banana and mix them well.

Now apply this mixture on your scalp evenly and massage it gently.

Leave it there on your scalp for about half an hour so that all the nutrients present in the mixture are completely absorbed by the scalp.

Wash your hair thoroughly with plain water after 15 minutes and then shampoo your hair with a mild shampoo. You can also use a conditioner on your hair.

Your hair will look thicker and healthier once it gets dry.

Try this treatment two to three times a week to get thicker hair.

You can also prepare a natural hair mask at home by mixing two tablespoons of olive oil with half a ripe mashed avocado.

You need to apply this home made mask on freshly shampooed hair and allow it to rest on the scalp for about 20 minutes.

Wash it off with water and then apply some conditioner on your hair to enjoy thicker hair.

5. Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek is another excellent natural home remedy that you can try out on your hair to prevent hair loss as well as to strengthen the volume of your hair.

Take two to three tablespoons of fenugreek seeds and soak them in plain water for about 10 hours. You can soak the fenugreek seeds in water overnight so that you can use it in the morning.

Make a fine paste of the soaked fenugreek seeds by adding a little bit of water in a blender or mixer.

Apply this mixture on your scalp and allow it to react with your scalp for about half an hour.

Now, you can wash it off with lukewarm water.

You can use this mixture on your scalp regularly to get rid of the dry scalp and to improve the volume of your hair.

You can also try rinsing your hair with the water in which you had soaked the fenugreek seeds for about 10 hours.

This will also help in getting rid of the dandruff and to boost hair growth on your scalp.

6.Gooseberry

The Indian gooseberry is a very important and natural ingredient that you can think of using on your hair and scalp in order to improve the growth of your hair and to maintain a healthy scalp. The Indian gooseberry is loaded with anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, exfoliating as well as antioxidant properties that will help in hair growth.

Take a tablespoon of dried gooseberry and put it in two tablespoons of coconut oil.

Boil this oil for about few minutes and then strain this oil.

Use this oil on your scalp and massage your scalp gently for a few minutes. It would be better for you to use this oil on your scalp before going to bed.

Shampoo your hair the next day in the morning and repeat this remedy four times a week to see hair growth.

Boil dried gooseberry or powdered Indian gooseberry in water for a few minutes and leave it in the water overnight.

Use this water to rinse your hair the next day. This will help in thickening your hair on regular use.

You can also take in gooseberry fruit or its extract everyday as a dietary supplement to enjoy thicker hair.

7. Coconut oil

Coconut oil is one of the best home remedies for promoting hair growth. Massaging the scalp with pure heated coconut oil is very effective in achieving thick hair. The proteins present in virgin coconut oil provide the nourishment for hair growth. Massaging the scalp with hot coconut oil will improve the blood circulation to the scalp and in better absorption of the nutrients by the hair follicles.

Heat the coconut oil and massage the oil to the scalp using the fingertips.

Always massage in circular motion, do not apply too much pressure.

After applying the oil cover your head with a thick towel dipped in hot water.

Leave the oil on hair for half an hour and wash it off with mild shampoo.

Repeat this remedy at least once a week to get strong, thick and long hair.

8.Olive oil

Olive oil contains omega three fatty acids which help in proper growth of the hair. Using olive oil to massage the scalp as well as including virgin olive oil in your diet can prevent hair loss and promote thicker hair growth.

Before going to bath, apply olive oil on your hair and massage using the fingertips.

Leave the oil on hair for about half an hour and rinse away oil using mild shampoo.

You can also apply olive oil on your hair before going to bed at night and can wash it off in the next day morning.

You can also mix olive oil with honey and apply this mixture on the hair and wash it off after half an hour to get soft and strong hair.

9. Flax Seed

Flax seed is not just a natural ingredient that has lots of health boosters but it also helps in increasing hair thickness. The fatty acids that are present in the flaxseed will help in thickening the hair naturally.

Mix three tablespoons of flax seeds in a bowl of water and keep it in water for about five days.

Dip a cotton ball in this flaxseed solution and then apply it directly on your scalp.

Leave it there for ten minutes and then wash it off with warm water.

Repeat this process daily and this will help in providing thicker hair on your scalp after a few days.

You can also eat a teaspoon of flax seed oil or ground flaxseeds every day to enjoy thick and shiny hair.

10. Henna Leaves

Henna powder and henna leaves extract is a very common ingredient that Indian women use on their hair once every week to improve the thickness of their hair. It is an age old remedy that women use to give natural color to their hair as well as to make it look softer and thicker.

Take a few fresh henna leaves and grind them in a mixer with a little bit of water.

Make it into a fine paste and leave it for a couple of hours.

Then apply this paste on your scalp and cover the hair with a shower cap.

Leave it there on your hair for about three hours and wash it off well with water. You can also use a conditioner on your hair after washing off the henna extract.

Another remedy is to soak the henna powder in a bowl of water overnight.

Add a raw egg to this henna paste and also add one or two teaspoons of fresh lemon juice. Mix this well and then apply this paste on your hair.

Leave this paste on your hair for about half an hour and wash it off with lukewarm water.

You need to repeat this process twice a week to see effective hair growth.

Are you not satisfied with the volume of hair you have on your head? Do you want to improve the thickness of the hair as well as improve the strength and length of your hair? If you are looking for the right natural and effective home remedies that will help in improving hair growth, then you can try out some of the above mentioned working home remedies that will help to improve hair volume naturally. All you need to do is to follow these home remedies religiously and you will be able to see a visible difference in the thickness of your hair as well as the texture of your hair in just a matter of few weeks.

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Celebrity hair stylist Rod Anker gives you crucial tips on how you can choose the hair product that suits your hair best.

With the onset of winter, you are surely getting worried seeing all those additional strands of hair in your comb. Well, it is natural to lose up to 100 strands of hair in a day, but, excessive hair loss is definitely something that you need to worry about.

But how can you tell what products are good for you, especially since all hair types are not the same. While some have a dry scalp, some have split ends and some have frizzy hair.

Celebrity hair stylist Rod Anker gives you crucial tips on how you can choose the hair product that suits your hair best.

Your lustrous locks need as much care as your face. So now that you know what hair products to buy from the market, here are some simple ways to increase your hair volume naturally and at home.

Oil massage

Massaging your scalp is very important as it improves the blood circulation and makes your roots healthy. Use warm oil to massage your hair and scalp. Always massage your scalp in circular motion. It is best to use either coconut or jojoba oil. Use rosemary oil to combat dandruff. After the massage, wrap your hair in a warm towel for a few minutes, to provide extra conditioning to your hair. It is important to keep scalp clean. Shampooing three or four times a week is plenty.

Balanced diet

A healthy and balanced diet is very important to enhance the volume of your hair naturally. Include necessary vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B, C, zinc, iron and copper in your diet. They will promote hair growth by strengthening your hair follicles. Also, drink at least 8 glasses of water everyday to keep your body and hair hydrated.

Conditioning

Conditioning your hair with good a conditioner, after shampoo is a must. A conditioner makes your hair more manageable and easier to untangle. It also helps to return the moisture that your hair strands would have lost during shampooing. But always remember to apply the conditioner at least 1-2 inches away from your scalp.

Use Aloe Vera

It can work wonders if used sensibly. Aloe vera is a natural remedy to bring hair fall under control. It provides essential moisture and nutrients to your scalp; thus, boosting hair growth. Apply aloe vera gel directly to scalp and let it stay for one hour. Then shampoo your hair to rinse it out. Regular use of this will definitely reduce hair fall.

No chemicals

It is best to avoid unnecessary hair procedures, like perming, straightening, and colouring. Such processes leave your hair dull and dry. Not only this, they also make your hair fragile and weaken your roots, thus leaving you more prone to hair loss.

Beneficial Amla

Alma is an important natural ingredient, which is used in many hair products as well. Amla helps to cure hair loss and lustre to dull and dry hair. It is important to include Amla in your diet. For best results eat at least one amla everyday, on an empty stomach. It is best to go for an amla hair oil massage. This will strenthen your hair roots and also enrich your natural hair colour as well.

De-stress

Stress is seen as a major culprit behind hair loss. Excess stress can lead to hair thinning and hair greying as well. Some of the good ways to distress is to include yoga or exercise in your daily routine. This would not only help you to de-stress but also boost the flow of oxygen and blood to your scalp.

Monday, September 22, 2014

With all the skill of a master weaver at a loom, Esther Ogble stands under a parasol in the sprawling Wuse market in Nigeria's capital and spins synthetic fibre into women's hair.

Nearby, three customers - one in a hijab - wait for a turn to spend several hours and $40 to have their hair done, a hefty sum in a country where many live on less than $2 a day.

While still largely based in the informal economy, the African haircare business has become a multi-billion dollar industry that stretches to China and India and has drawn global giants such as L'Oreal and Unilever.

Hairdressers such as Ogble are a fixture of markets and taxi ranks across Africa, reflecting both the continent's rising incomes and demand from hair-conscious women.

"I need to braid my hair so that I will look beautiful," said 25-year-old Blessing James, wincing as Ogble combed and tugged at the back of her head before weaving in a plait that fell well past the shoulder.

While reliable Africa-wide figures are hard to come by, market research firm Euromonitor International estimates $1.1 billion of shampoos, relaxers and hair lotions were sold in South Africa, Nigeria and Cameroon alone last year.

It sees the liquid haircare market growing by about 5 percent from 2013 to 2018 in Nigeria and Cameroon, with a slight decline for the more mature South African market.

This does not include sales from more than 40 other sub-Saharan countries, or the huge "dry hair" market of weaves, extensions and wigs crafted from everything from synthetic fibre to human or yak hair.

Some estimates put Africa's dry hair industry at as much as $6 billion a year; Nigerian singer Muma Gee recently boasted that she spends 500,000 naira ($3,100) on a single hair piece made of 11 sets of human hair.

INFORMAL ECONOMY

Haircare is a vital source of jobs for women, who make up a large slice of the informal economy on the poorest continent.

But business in Wuse market has slowed recently, said 37-year-old Josephine Agwa, because women were avoiding public places due to concerns about attacks by Islamic militant group Boko Haram.

The capital has been targeted three times since April, including a bomb blast on a crowded shopping district in June that killed more than 20 people.

"The ones that don't want to come, they call us for home service," she said as she put the finishing touches on a six-hour, $40 style called "pick and dropped with coils" - impossibly small braids that cascade into lustrous curls.

Nigerians are not alone in their pursuit of fancy locks.

"I get bored if I have one style for too long," said Buli Dhlomo, a 20 year-old South African student who sports long red and blonde braids. Her next plan is to cut her hair short and dye it "copper gold".

"It looks really cool. My mum had it and I also had it at the beginning of the year and it looked really good," said Dhlomo, who can spend up to 4,000 rand ($370) on a weave.

DARING STYLES

While South Africans change their hairstyle often, West Africans do so even more, said Bertrand de Laleu, managing director of L'Oreal South Africa.

"African women are probably the most daring when it comes to hair styles," he said, noting that dry hair - almost unheard of a decade ago - was a growing trend across sub-Saharan Africa.

"Suddenly you can play with new tools that didn't exist or were unaffordable."

The French cosmetics giant this year opened what it billed as South Africa's first multi-ethnic styling school, training students of all races on all kinds of hair, something that would have been unthinkable before the end of apartheid in 1994.

While the South African hair market remains divided, salons are looking to boost revenues by drawing in customers across ethnic groups, meaning hairdressers who once catered only for whites will need stylists who can also work on African hair.

L'Oreal is looking to build on its "Dark and Lovely" line of relaxers and other products with more research into African hair and skin and has factories in South Africa and Kenya producing almost half the products it distributes on the continent.

HAIR FROM INDIA, VIA CHINA

Nor is it alone. Anglo-Dutch group Unilever has a salon in downtown Johannesburg promoting its "Motions" line of black haircare products, and niche operators are springing up in the booming dry hair market.

"We supply anything to do with dry hair, across the board," said Kabir Mohamed, managing director of South Africa's Buhle Braids, rattling off a product line of braids, weaves and extensions that use tape, rings or keratin bonds.

Today there are more than 100 brands of hair in South Africa, making the market worth about $600 million, he said, roughly four times more than in 2005.

Much of the hair sold is the cheaper synthetic type and comes from Asia. Pricier natural hair is prized because it lasts longer, retains moisture and can be dyed.

Buhle Braids, like its rivals, sources much of its natural hair from India, which has a culture of hair collection, particularly from Hindu temples or village "hair collectors".

The hair is then sent to China where it is processed into extensions and shipped to Africa. Hair from yaks, to which some people are allergic, is now used less.

In one clue to the potential for Africa, market research firm Mintel put the size of the black haircare market in the United States at $684 million in 2013, estimating that it could be closer to $500 billion if weaves, extensions and sales from independent beauty stores or distributors are included.

What is certain is that Africa's demand for hair products, particularly those made from human hair, is only growing.

"It hurts, but you have to endure if you want to look nice," said Josephine Ezeh, who sat in Wuse market cradling a baby as a hairdresser tugged at her head. "Hair is very, very important."

Friday, September 19, 2014

During our daily routine, our hair is often subjected to unfavourable environmental conditions and chemicals. Over exposure to the sun or humid weather, chlorinated water and unnecessary exposure to heated styling appliances cause excessive damage to the hair. This means, you need timely hair treatments for damage control and to help restore the lost nutrients. Here are hair spa treatments you could opt for each of your hair problems:

Dry and frizzy hair - Power, protein dose hair spa

If you’ve had enough of dry and unmanageable frizzy hair, this type of hair spa treatment is ideal. It helps in healthy hair growth and helps regain its lost lustre. The number of sessions for this treatment depend on how damaged and dry your hair are.

Keratin treatment

This treatment is often associated with straightening or rebonding. However it is meant to tame down unruly curls and soften them. Your hair is shampooed and blow-dried, after which the solution is applied with a brush and combed through the hair, and left for 20 minutes. Hair is then blow-dried once more and flat ironed. Says celebrity hairstylist Vikas Marwah says, ‘This hair treatment leaves the hair with a gloss effect and straightens it up to 50%. You will see your hair soft and smooth within one session, lasting you for at least 3-4 months. Also, you should use a sulfate free shampoo, so this treatment lasts you longer.’ Know how effective it is here.

Moroccan Oil Treatment

This hair treatment is a favourite of many. Coming from argan oil, it is non-greasy and comes to the rescue for dry and damaged hair. You could also pick up a bottle of Moroccan oil and massage your hair and scalp at home.

Hair Fall - Ozone, high frequency hair spa treatment

This hair treatment helps eradicate dry skin cells from the scalp and increases the blood circulation. Hence, this helps in strengthening the hair follicles and increases hair growth. This is a multi-functional hair treatment as it also curbs excessive dandruff. Vikas says, ‘If you are suffering from a severe hair fall problem, it is best to stick to a mild shampoo and keep away from chemical based ones. Or you could mix some water with your shampoo for a lighter consistency.’

Dandruff - Refining hair spa

Having an itchy and flaky scalp is a very common hair problem and a regular hair spa treatment could definitely give you some relief from it. Vikas says, ‘This spa includes fusing in an ‘m-fule’ pill to clear off the dandruff completely. The sessions, again depend on how dry and how severe your dandruff problem is.’ It helps your hair rejuvenate and relieves the scalp of the dryness and irritation caused.

Wednesday, September 17, 2014

When it comes to looking after your hair and skin, you know exactly what to do, but do you know what not to do? Here are some of the hair and skincare mistakes you may inadvertently be making.

You’ve bought the expensive make up, got a fancy hair cut and are all set to dazzle the world with your sleek look. But are there some things you may be doing wrong? Find out if you’re making these skin and hair care mistakes.

The worst hair and skincare mistakes you may be making

Sleeping with make up on – After a long night of partying, it’s so tempting to just take off your shoes and hit the bed. But sleeping with heavy make up on is one of the worst things you can do to your skin. Not only are you clogging your pores, which can lead to acne; you’re also subjecting your skin to the free radicals from the environment that your make up clings on to. This can result in eeks! premature ageing and who needs that?

Washing your face with scalding hot water – Hold back on the super hot water for your face as that can damage your blood vessel. Instead, wash your face with lukewarm water and you’ll be fine.

Too much or too little exfoliation – Exfoliation is an important part of skincare as it removes the dead cells from your skin. However, be careful not to overdo it, or conversely, not exfoliate at all. Ideally, you should exfoliate your face once or twice a week (never on two successive days) and if you have dry or sensitive skin, try and stick to just once a week or once in 10 days.

Leaving oil in your hair all day – Ladies! Read carefully because this is important. When it comes to oiling hair, it’s the massage that’s really important. Do not leave oil in your hair all day as it will just attract dirt and clog your pores, leading to hair fall. Massage your scalp well, leave the oil in for an hour and then wash it off.

Not moisturising for fear of acne – There is a myth amongst those prone to acne that applying a moisturiser will aggravate the acne. This is untrue and can actually lead to excessive oil production from the skin, which may cause another acne breakout. Pick an oil-free moisturiser and ensure your skin is well-hydrated at all times.

Not getting enough sleep – This one’s a rookie mistake! The best care for your skin is a nice long restful sleep. So don’t be up watching movies all night if you have college or work the next day. Make sure you get your beauty sleep and keep your skin looking young and fresh.

Smoking – That’s right, guys! In addition to being bad for your lungs, heart and general health, smoking is one of the fastest ways you can age your skin. Smoking can cause bags under your eyes, darkening of lips and even increases your chances of getting psoriasis. Sigh! Still need a reason to quit?

Monday, September 15, 2014

Does your hair break easily and looks dull, frizzy and dry? You probably have brittle hair which if ignored can lead to hair loss eventually. But there are tips and tricks which can help you manage this condition yourself. We asked renowned hair and skin expert Dr Jaishree Sharad to tell us more about brittle hair – its causes and ways to manage it.

Why does hair become brittle?

Your hair can turn brittle without you even realising it. Even people who have luscious locks can have brittle hair if they do not take good care of it. According to Dr Sharad, ‘Brittle hair is generally caused by various chemical and physical treatments done to the hair fibre such as excessive curling, dying, or the improper use of other hair straightening products, excessive sun exposure. Because so many environmental and cosmetic factors may be at once, it is difficult to pinpoint one factor as THE CAUSE of hair weathering.’

Tips to reverse this condition

A few dietary changes and DIY tips can help you tackle brittle hair with ease. Lack of certain essential vitamins such as vitamin C, B complex, iron too can result in weak and brittle hair. Since the hair is made of keratin which is a protein, it is vital to feed your hair that to increase its strength. Here’s what Dr Sharad advises:

Avoid blow drying and other heat treatments such as perming or straightening.

Avoid sun exposure or cover hair with a hat or apply hair sunscreen to protect it from harmful rays.

Check your hemoglobin level and if low, take supplements.

DIY hair packs for brittle hair

A simple hair pack which you can make at home is of aloe vera gel and honey. Mix the two in equal proportions and then apply the mixture on your roots and hair and let it stay for 15 minutes. Then rinse hair with plain water or a mild shampoo. Do this twice a week to see results. The gel will make your hair less frizzy and honey will provide the moisture it needs.

Another hair mask which you can make at home is using the yolk of an egg and adding a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with it. Apply it the same way and leave for 15-20 minutes before washing it off. This will not just strengthen your roots but add a shine too.

Friday, September 12, 2014

I just got back from a week at the beach to restore my mind and body: endless dips in the salty ocean, laps in the pool, snorkeling for hours on end. Ahhhh. But my blissful state was upended when I went to see my hair stylist. “So, let me see the damage,” she said. My carefully highlighted hair had lost its lustre - the blonde was brassy, the ends fried.

Note to stylist: I did hear you last time, when you warned me about chlorine after I spent a mere 30 minutes in the pool at that Orlando resort. Understandably, it was highly chlorinated to deal with dozens of children swimming around.

This time, my stylist cried out, “Oh my God! What happened?” I feebly explained I’d been down the waterslide just once or twice. I guess my hair got damp when I rocketed into the water at the bottom of the slide. Who knew that even a tiny bit of chlorine could wreak havoc?

Protect your hair from the elements with a great hat.

Kyle White

Lead hair colorist at Oscar Blandi, who counts Mariah Carey and Julianna Margulies among his clients

Hair advice: White says sun exposure is the equivalent of bleach and fades color: “You need to use a sunblock every time you wash, even in winter if your hair is going to be in direct sunlight.”

Salt water and chlorine will not only fry your hair, but it will turn your blonde locks into orange straw. White advises using an oil with SPF, like Phytoplage, that will fill the cuticle of your hair so it won’t absorb chlorinated water. Rinse your hair with fresh water when you get out, then reapply the oil and put back on your hat.

Rinse hair with fresh water after hitting the pool.

If you get chlorine on your hair, an easy at-home solution is to use an apple-cider vinegar rinse that will remove chlorine deposits, take out highlight-dulling product build-up, remove dead skin cells, and unclog hair follicles.

Just as your black or bright colored clothes fade in the hot clothes dryer, heat styling fades your hair color. So if you are using heat styling tools, be sure to use a thermal protector like “Its a 10,” which is also a leave-in treatment with protein and vitamins.

After sun exposure, frequent shampooing is the second biggest fader of hair color — so cut back and use a dry shampoo (Oscar Blandi has one called Pronto). “Your scalp’s natural oils are Mother Nature’s deep conditioner,” he says.

Oscar Blandi

Hair advice: Get a trim before you go on vacation. “Playing on the beach, in the chlorine water — the ends can become dry and brittle,” he says, especially if you are going out and using hot, damaging tools like hair dryers, straighteners, or curling irons.

Alonso Salguero

Hair advice: Products can make all the difference. A deep-conditioning treatment like Kerastase Elixir Ultime cream, and another product, Aqua-seal by Kerastase covers the hair cuticle and keeps moisture in.

The simplest and easiest advice is saturating hair with water before leaping into chlorinated or salt water because hair can only absorb so much water - says Salguero - and getting it wet prior to swimming keeps some of the chemicals out.

You can also apply a glaze like the Christine Hair Glaze from Van Thomas Concepts. This protective layer helps minimize the damage and gives your hair an extra bit of defense against the elements.

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

Wondering what will be the next hair trend in 2014? According to industry experts, straight hair is back in vogue. Straightening hair is a good way to reinvent a person’s look and the sleek sophistication lent by straight hair is a big fashion trend for 2014. Rather than straightening your hairevery single morning with straighteners, you can opt for semi-permanent options that last a good few months, are hassle-free and all you need to do to set is to run a comb through them. Read more about the pros and cons of straightening hair.

According to Adhuna Bhabani Akhtar, celebrity hairstylist, there are three basic ways to chemically straighten hair – by rebonding, smoothening or by keratin treatment, depending on how straight the hair is required to be. Find out which one is best-suited for your hair.

Keratin treatment

According to Rod Anker, Creative Director of Monsoon Salon and Spa, keratin treatmentrelaxes the curls and frizziness of the hair – making it only appear to be straight. It not only promises to make your hair smooth, shiny and frizz-free, it also makes it straight but not in an unnatural-looking, poker-straight strands. It softens your curls and with the help of other chemicals, helps retain the look for a good few months. Read more about keratin treatment for your hair.

Hair rebonding

This treatment is quite suited for people who have very curly hair and the end result is poker straight hair. In this process, the bonds of your hair are broken with the help of a chemical formula and then again neutralisers are applied to restructure the bonds. By doing this, the existing bonds that exist in curly hair are broken and once the hair is straightened, new bonds are made to rearrange the physical structure of your hair. This is a more permanent method than keratin or smoothening. However, if you love your curls, here are some tips to manage very curly, dry hair.

Hair smoothening

This process is similar to keratin but instead of keratin a different cream is used. It is best-suited for people who have wavy hair or even straight hair which is frizzy. It will smoothen out the frizz and make the hair more manageable and straight but not make it look too unnatural. People with very curly hair may not like the results as it won’t stay for too long. But if you wish to have natural-looking, straight hair which does not look artificially straightened, opt for this. The results won’t last too long unless you have very light waves or straight hair but will save you from having bad hair days. Here are some more tips to manage frizzy hair.

Anker advises to opt for either rebonding or smoothening as the re-growth in rebonding is completely natural and in case of smoothening, while it won’t make hair extremely straight, it looks more natural and does not damage hair as much.

Friday, September 5, 2014

Hair loss is a feared condition which in addition to one’s hair also results in a certain loss of self-esteem and confidence. The sad part is, it is quite prevalent in youngsters these days but the good news is, it can very much be controlled and reversed with the latest advancements in technology.

There are certain common causes which lead to hair loss. These include:

Stress: Fast-paced and hectic lifestyles can sap a lot of energy out of us and increase our stress levels. Numerous studies hold stress responsible for many health problems ranging from smaller ones like a headache to life-threatening ailments like a heart attack. True, a good percentage of people who shed a bit of extra hair are susceptible to a lot of stress, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that stress is the only factor responsible for baldness.

Hair styling tools: Blow drying your hair after a shower may seem to be an easy and no-fuss method, but numerous studies suggest that blow drying your hair on a daily basis could contribute to a lot of hair fall. Other styling treatments like straightening and curling if done frequently, contribute to a few extra strands on your hairbrush.

Junk food: Junk food is criticised and held responsible for almost all health conditions, and it’s mostly because junk food hardly gives your body any nutrients. Living on junk food could lead to nutritional deficiencies, which may contribute to baldness. People having eating disorders are also more likely to suffer from extensive hair loss.

Not just these, hair loss could also be a result of certain conditions:

Psoriasis: Dandruff is a common problem that can be easily treated with an anti-dandruff shampoo. But if your dandruff is starting to turn into thick, scaly patches, it could be a sign that you have psoriasis. It is a long-term skin problem that causes skin cells to grow rapidly that leads to thick, white, silvery, or red patches of skin.

Protein deficiency: Another sign of a more serious problem could be dry and brittle hair that breaks easily. Your hair is made up of a protein called keratin, and if you’re not getting enough protein in your diet, it could weaken your hair. This could also be another sign of a thyroid issue, so be sure to check with your doctor if this is the case.

Home remedies to treat hair loss

If you are experiencing hair fall, you can control it with inexpensive home remedies. These help in strengthening the roots to initiate new growth. Some of these are:

Onion: Squeeze an onion and take juice out of it. Add one to two teaspoons of honey to it. To do away with the odour, you can use rose water with onions. Mix and apply it on your hair. Keep it for 40 to 50 minutes. Then wash your hair.

Coriander: Make a paste with freshly chopped coriander leaves and water. Use its juice to apply on the scalp. Keep it for about an hour and then wash it off.

Curry leaves: You can make an effective hair tonic by boiling some curry leaves in your hair oil and applying it on your scalp. Massage it well for at least 15-20 minutes. Follow this procedure twice a week to stimulate your hair growth.

Coconut: Coconut provides a host of ingredients that naturally condition and promote growth of hair. The milk of the coconut contains proteins, essential fats and minerals such as potassium and iron; using it regularly can reduce the breakage of hair. Coconut oil also carries the same rich ingredients and it helps to make the hair stronger right from the root, through the shaft to the tip. Regular use of this oil to massage the scalp has a protective action against hair loss. Grate coconut and squeeze out the milk by mixing in a little water. Apply this to the specific area where you notice thinning or balding. Allow to stay overnight and the next morning, rinse off with water.

Amla: Packed with vitamin C and rich in antioxidants, amla is the perfect solution for most hair loss woes. Besides applying to the scalp, it is also helpful to consume it on a regular basis because the vitamin C is good for your body. Crush the amla fruit to extract a juice or buy the amla powder available at an herbal store. Add 2 teaspoons of the juice or the powder into an equal quantity of the juice freshly squeezed from a lime. Mix well, apply to the scalp and leave it to dry; then rinse using warm water.

Other treatments

Hair transplant: This is perhaps the most permanent solution for hair loss. It is broadly achieved by removing grafts/follicles from the back of the head which are more resistant to hormonal changes, and placing them in areas of scanty growth or baldness. There are two methods to remove the grafts – Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE).

Hair restoration: This procedure consists of regrowing hair on the scalp without any linear scarring. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area before the procedure and hair follicles are removed from the non-testosterone sensitive zone at the back of the head. After this, the hair follicles are placed on the scalp. On an average, 6,000 to 9,000 hair follicles are placed on the scalp. The hair begins to grow after about three months of the treatment and thickens up between the fifth and eighth months. Patients can see a full growth within 10 months of the procedure. This method of hair restoration does not use cutting objects like scalpels or sutures which cause scarring and takes up to six hours for one sitting.

Hair extensions: Hair extensions are a temporary solution for people who have lost hair either made of human hair or synthetic hair fibre supplements. They can make your thin hair look voluminous. Wax, glue, adhesive or silicon rings are used to attach the extensions to hair. If you are using human hair, you need to take care of it by keeping it well-conditioned. On the other hand, synthetic fibres lose shine and colour due to frequent washing. So be careful with them.

Stem cell treatment: In this process, a small amount of fat is taken from the waist area of the person whose hair is being treated through a mini-liposuction process. This fat, which contains dormant stem cells, is then put in a centrifuge and spun to separate the stem cells from the fat. Once that is done, an activation solution is added to these cells. The cells might have to be multiplied in number depending on the size of the bald area that needs coverage. Once activated, the solution is washed off so that only cells remain. Now, the stem cells are injected into the scalp where hair loss has appeared. One can find some hair growth in about two to four weeks.

In this technique, a thin and transparent membrane containing human hair is applied to the scalp and woven with rest of the hair for a natural look.

Wefts and strand-by-strand procedures: The process involves selecting the hair type and membrane that matches best with the patient so as to give the hair a very natural look and feel. The colour, hair type etc. need to be similar to their existing hair. Next in line is the adhesive used for bonding the membrane to the scalp. Due to technological advancements, the adhesive used these days is very strong and does not come off due to sweat or water.

Apart from these, there are also medications to control hair fall depending on the type of hair loss you are suffering from.

For male pattern baldness

Finasteride: It is a pill that blocks the action of natural hormones in scalp hair and reduces hair loss. Approved for use in only men with androgenic hair loss, this drug is found to be safe in postmenopausal women.

Dutasteride: It may help in hair loss by blocking the production of or binding of testosterone in the scalp hair follicles. You are not permitted to donate blood before the six-month clearance time after taking this medication.

For patchy hair loss

Small amounts of steroids like triamcinolone may be injected into your affected scalp patches to stimulate hair growth.

Other options such as oral steroids, immune-suppressants or ultraviolet light therapy are available for severe cases but they have potential side effects or risks.

Though these are the available options you can choose from if you suffer from hair loss, in order to avoid it, eat a healthy diet and nourish your hair to keep it from falling. Massage using oils like olive, coconut, almond, etc.

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Dry weather can make your hair brittle and impossible to tame. It doesn’t just stop with your hair. When there is a nip in the air, your scalp starts getting itchy and flaky. “Varying temperatures mean trouble for your hair as the moisture from your hair and scalp gets sucked out. This makes the scalp flake easily, leading to dandruff,” says trichologist Leena Nair from Chennai.

Fight the dryness

In the shower: Never wash your hair with piping hot water, no matter how tempting it is. Lukewarm water works better. Weather may have a drying effect on your hair. Opt for a mild shampoo. Make sure not to shampoo your hair too often, as it will strip the hair of its natural oils. You can choose oil-infused shampoos that are available in the market today.

Go for a hot massage: Massage with lukewarm coconut, olive or almond oil once a week. It increases blood circulation in the scalp, promotes healthy hair growth and curbs hair fall. Applying jojoba, jaborandi or rosemary oil is also a great way to give your hair and scalp a healthy dose of nutrients. Moroccon oil also provides good nourishment. However, go easy on the application if your hair feels too oily; you’ll end up shampooing it more than necessary. This will make your hair drier and the whole purpose of a hot oil massage will go to waste.

Well-conditioned: A rich conditioner is a must-have. Condition your hair every time you wash it to increase its elasticity, strength and shine. If you have unmanageable curls, use a leave-in conditioner to keep them in place and make them look healthy.

Beat the frizz

Hair static: Static happens when your hair picks up an electrical charge from the dry air. “It’s common in the chillier months because the air has less moisture during winter,” says Nair. Fight it by switching to a more hydrating shampoo and conditioner for your hair. If you have fine, straight hair, apply an anti-frizz cream on the tips to avoid product build-up. If you have wavy thick hair, use a rich conditioning spray to lock in moisture and beat static. Apply it on damp hair and instead of using a plastic comb, use a wide-toothed wooden comb. Avoid brushing your hair when wet. Another way to combat static is to apply a small amount of hair spray on your hairbrush and brush the hair from the top to the bottom.

Tame the itch: Wash your hair with a good anti-dandruff shampoo to keep infections at bay. It’s a good idea to cut down the use of styling products, as they may also attract dirt and grime. Brush and comb gently to avoid causing scalp damage. Don’t tie your hair up when wet, as this can make the ends brittle and trap the moisture in your scalp, which in turn can cause flakes.

Proteins: Proteins are the building block for new hair follicles. Without them hair will become fragile and break. Chicken and other lean meats are excellent sources of protein. Oysters, crab, beef and pork are also great sources of zinc, which helps in curbing hair loss. Veggie options are tofu and beans.

Nuts: Packed with proteins, vitamin B5 and other nutrients, nuts keep your hair in good condition. Nuts such as almonds, pecans and Brazil nuts add both selenium and zinc to the diet. Zinc and magnesium (almonds are a great source) are also crucial for hair growth. Peanuts contain vitamin B5, which help hair grow stronger. Choose unsalted nuts and eat them as snacks or in salads.

Green veggies: Eating dark, leafy, green vegetables like spinach and broccoli help in maintaining the scalp’s pH balance. They’re rich in vitamins A and C.

Home spa

Coconut milk rinse, is a great natural and rich conditioner.

Try a lemon or vinegar rinse, for wonderfully shiny hair. Apply some diluted lemon juice or cider vinegar all over your hair and scalp before your final rinse. It’ll help prevent your hair from becoming greasy.

Neem paste: You can wash the hair with a paste made from neem leaves, as it’s best for keeping dandruff and other scalp infections at bay.

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

To make your dream of flaunting long and silky tresses on your wedding come true, you would do everything possible- from spending hours at salon to buying expensive hair care products. After all, your hair will be an integral part of your bridal look. But, only external care and treatments are not sufficient for healthy hair growth.To get healthy and long locks you need internal nourishment as well.

Vitamins play a vital role in promoting hair growth, and make your hair healthier and shinier. So, let us tell you about six most vital vitamins that you need for healthy and happy hair and the best natural sources to get them.

Vitamin B7

Vitamin B7, also known as Biotin, is one of the most important vitamins for hair. It is popularly also called vitamin H. Biotin helps in the production of the fatty acid that is responsible for cell growth. It not only repairs brittle hair, but also improves the texture of your hair. Biotin deficiency can lead to a dry, flaky and itchy scalp.

What to Eat?

Foods that are a great source of vitamin B7:

Cauliflower

Almonds

Walnut

Oatmeal

Bananas

Raspberries

Egg yolks

Liver

Meat

Dairy products

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is another important vitamin that would help you to get long and shiny locks. It not only promotes hair growth, but also keeps your hair black. The antioxidants present in vitamin A keeps your scalp moisturised and prevents your hair from drying out. Vitamin A also helps in keeping your hair thick and strong.

What to Eat?

Foods that are a great source of vitamin A:

Mangoes

Apricots

Peaches

Eggs

Milk

Spinach

Sweet Potatoes

Red peppers

Paprika

Vitamin B3

Vitamin B3, or niacin, is helpful in making your hair thick. This water-soluble vitamin helps in nourishing the scalp and promoting hair growth. Deficiency of niacin can cause hair to become dull, brittle, and eventually lead to hair fall.

What to Eat?

Foods that are a great source of vitamin B3:

Carrots

Mushrooms

Celery

Kidney beans

Almonds

Peanuts

Avocado

Passion fruit

Rice (especially brown)

Shrimps

Lean red meat

Beef

Tuna

Salmon

Coffee

Vitamin C

Everyone is aware that vitamin C is vitally important for your immune system and is a great antioxidant. It helps in curing various hair problems like premature greying and dryness of scalp. A person deficient in vitamin C suffers from split ends, hair breakage and hair fall. So, to save yourself from all these problems indugle in vitamin C-rich foods.

What to Eat?

Foods that are a great source of vitamin C:

Guavas

Strawberries

Kiwi

Citrus Fruit (oranges, grapefruit, lemon, etc.)

Broccoli

Peas

Potatoes

Peppers (especially yellow bell peppers)

Thyme

Vitamin E

One of the most overlooked vitamins of all; vitamin E has the ability to cure roughness and dryness of hair. It promotes a healthy scalp that is a prerequisite for long and healthy hair. It locks in moisture in hair strands, keeps them shiny and protects them from drying out. It improves the texture and quality of your hair strands and discourages hair fall.

What to Eat?

Foods that are a great source of vitamin E:

Cooked spinach

Peanuts

Seeds (like Sunflower, pumpkin, sesame, etc.)

Dried herbs (basil, Oregano, etc.)

Tomatoes

Asparagus

Red bell pepper

Chilli powder

Hazelnut

Almonds

Olives

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is responsible for promoting healthy hair follicles. Lack of this vitamin can lead to hair fall problems. However, you do not require vitamin D in large quantities. Regular outings to soak in a little sunlight, are sufficient for the body to generate the required amount.

What to Eat?

Though there is nothing better than letting the body generate vitamin D on its own by soaking in the sunlight. Here are some foods that are a great source of vitamin D:

Fatty fishes (tuna, salmon, mackerel)

Oysters

Dairy products

Soy milk

Cereals

Cheese

Egg yolks

Vitamin B12

Cobalamin or vitamin B12, is a vitamin that plays a vital role in boosting metabolism. Vitamin B12 aids in production of red blood cells. At the base of hair follicles, there are numerous blood vessels, which are connected to the hair roots. The red blood cells carry oxygen to these blood vessels. Without adequate oxygen, hair cannot sustain healthy growth and will become dry and brittle. Vitamin B12 is also essential if you wish to keep problems like hair greying and falling at bay.

What to Eat?

Foods that are a great source of vitamin E:

Mackerel

Cheese (swizz, feta, mozzarella)

Oysters

Mussels

Whole-fat milk

Non-fat yogurt

Eggs

Meat

Shellfish

To get long and healthy hair for your wedding, you need to care of your scalp both externally as well as internally. So, remember to add these vital vitamins in your daily diet, along with your external treatments to get those gorgeous locks.